Sid's cheek burned from the slap, but his mind lagged behind the sting. He had expected shock, confusion, maybe even tears… but not fury. Her trembling body, her blazing ruby eyes, the horror written across her face… none of it matched what he thought revival would bring. He opened his mouth, but the words never left.
A harsh buzz cut through his vision.
[SYSTEM ALERT!]
[Stamina Empty. Body Shutting Down.]
His body swayed, knees buckling.
"What? Don't tell me… that slap drained me?"
His thoughts spiraled as the world blurred.
"I've never been slapped before, and somehow my first one nearly knocked me out. Damn… she's stronger than she looks."
His vision darkened, but his eyes never left her. She shook with anger, her chest rising and falling, horror etched deep into her face. She looked at him as if he had committed a crime by saving her.
"Why is she angry at me? I brought her back… I gave her life again. Why does she look at me like I've done something unforgivable?"
